Here's why:
* Popularity: "I Love Lucy" was a huge hit, breaking ratings records and becoming one of the most popular sitcoms of all time.
* Cultural Impact: Lucy and Ricky became household names, influencing everything from fashion to language. Their relationship was also a cultural touchstone, depicting a dynamic marriage that both resonated with and challenged traditional views.
* Early Years: The show premiered in 1951, right at the beginning of the decade.
However, other couples from the early 50s also gained significant fame:
* Ozzie and Harriet Nelson from "The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet" (1952-1966) offered a more idealized family portrait.
* The Cleavers from "Leave it to Beaver" (1957-1963) also became beloved representations of a happy, close-knit family.
Ultimately, the "first" is debatable, but Lucy and Ricky were certainly among the most impactful and influential TV couples of the 1950s.